How does the body respond to decreased blood glucose level?
The body has several mechanisms to respond to decreased blood glucose levels, also known as hypoglycemia. These responses aim to restore the blood glucose level back to normal and maintain homeostasis. Here's an overview of the body's response to decreased blood glucose:
1. Glucagon release: The pancreas releases the hormone glucagon when blood glucose levels drop. Glucagon stimulates the liver to convert stored glycogen into glucose and release it into the bloodstream. This process is known as glycogenolysis.
2. Inhibition of insulin release: The pancreas also decreases the release of insulin when blood glucose levels are low. Insulin is the hormone responsible for lowering blood glucose levels, so its inhibition prevents further glucose uptake by cells and helps preserve the remaining glucose in the bloodstream.
3. Adrenaline (epinephrine) release: The adrenal glands release adrenaline in response to hypoglycemia. Adrenaline stimulates the breakdown of glycogen into glucose in the liver and skeletal muscle and also promotes the release of glucose from fat cells (lipolysis).
4. Increased hepatic glucose production: The liver plays a crucial role in maintaining blood glucose levels. During hypoglycemia, the liver increases the production of glucose through processes such as gluconeogenesis (conversion of non-carbohydrate sources like amino acids and glycerol into glucose) and glycogenolysis (breakdown of stored glycogen).
5. Activation of the sympathetic nervous system: Hypoglycemia triggers the activation of the sympathetic nervous system, which leads to several responses, including increased heart rate, sweating, shakiness, anxiety, and hunger pangs. These symptoms alert the individual to the low blood glucose level and prompt them to take action.
6. Reduced glucose uptake by peripheral tissues: To conserve the available glucose, the body reduces the uptake of glucose by peripheral tissues, such as skeletal muscle and adipose tissue. This helps maintain glucose availability for critical organs like the brain and heart.
7. Ketosis and ketone body utilization: In prolonged or severe hypoglycemia, the body may enter a state of ketosis. During ketosis, fatty acids are broken down and converted into ketone bodies, which can be used as an alternative fuel source by various tissues.
It's important to note that the body's response to hypoglycemia is tightly regulated and involves the coordination of multiple hormones and metabolic processes. These mechanisms work together to maintain blood glucose levels within a narrow range, ensuring proper functioning of various organs and tissues in the body.